WINDOWS 8 has been officially launched to rave reviews saying 'it's the end of your desktop' and 'it's the future of computing'.

The revolutionary operating system Windows 8 will run on tablets as well as desktops and laptops.

Windows 8 will come in two variations - one that works on desktops and laptops, and a new version for the ARM microprocessors in tablets, smartphones and other portable devices.

It is expected to be in the stores by Fall and will be bundled free with many tablets – in a move which takes the fight to arch-rival Apple.

Windows 8 features a completely new interface, borrowed from what Microsoft calls the ‘Metro’ style of the current Windows Phone software.

It features blocks or 'tiles' that can be moved around the screen or tapped to go straight into an application.

The tiles update in real time, so you can see if you have emails, voice messages or Facebook notifications at a glance.

Wired said: “Your desktop is dead. The next few years of computing are going to be very interesting to watch unfold. But one thing's for sure: Microsoft is at least one step ahead of Apple in putting the desktop interface to rest.”

Mashable said: “In the end, Microsoft isn’t just asking you to get used to a different interface for Windows. It’s asking you to get used to multiple within the same OS. I’m not sure how many people have the patience for that. Still, Metro is gorgeous enough to keep me looking forward to Windows 8′s final act.”

Boy Genius Report said: “We are now entering the post-post-PC era, and its focus is the PC. A new, smarter, more versatile PC. This is the future of computing.”